Involving the headteacher in the development of school-based health interventions: A mixed-methods outcome and process evaluation using the RE-AIM framework

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230745
• Publication Date: 2020-04-02T17:42:42Z
• Authors: Danielle L. Chris...; Charlotte Todd; Jaynie Rance; Gareth Stratton; Kelly A. Mackintosh; Frances Rapport; Sinead Brophy
• Keywords: Male; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; L510; Science; 4. Education; Q; Health Behavior; R; Child Health; Health Promotion; Faculty; B910; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; School Nursing; Medicine; Humans; Female; School Teachers; Child; Exercise; Research Article; School Health Services

Although interventions delivered in school settings have the potential to improve children's health and well-being, implementation of effective schools presents challenges. Previous research suggests facilitating greater autonomy for select aligned their needs could maintenance. The aim this mixed-methods outcome process evaluation was explore whether involving headteachers developmental stages influenced adoption, effectiveness (e.g. pupil fitness physical activity, assessed quantitatively), maintenance (assessed quantitatively qualitatively). Three UK primary were provided with a choice five evidence-based activity interventions: Playground scrapstore, daily classroom refreshers, alternative afterschool clubs, parent child activities an 'In Zone' playground intervention. To evaluate impact autonomous approach, semi-structured interviews (n = 3), teachers private coach, focus groups pupils aged 9-11 6, 31 pupils, 15 boys), undertaken. This alongside evaluation, guided by RE-AIM framework. study impacts on approach effect (seven day accelerometry-GENEActiv) aerobic (20m shuttle run). All three adopted different intervention components; refreshers. Headteachers welcomed developing school-based appreciated more collaborative approach. Mixed results reported effectiveness, adopted. Allowing promoting positive environment key factors enhancing engagement. Moreover, inclusive projects consideration existing curriculum pressures aided implementation. provides valuable insights about approaches inform further development, future interventions.